AGILITY

Agility is the ultimate game for you and your dog. It also one of the most exciting canine sports for spectators. In agility, a dog demonstrates is agile nature and versatility by following cues from the handler through a timed obstacle course. The course has jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other obstacles. Agility strengthens the bond between dogs and handlers, it is extremely fun, and it provides vigorous exercise for both!

Agility began in England in 1978. The AKC held its first agility trial in 1994. Agility is now the fastest growing dog sport in the United States and is the fastest growing event at the AKC!

Agility can be performed by any type of dog including mixed breeds. An energetic attitude is a plus, but size is not a determining factor. Agility can be fun for all size dogs from Yorkshire Terriers to Irish Wolfhounds. All dogs in the same class run the same course with adjustments in the expected time and jump height. The classes are also divided by jump heights in order to make the competition equal between the different size of dogs.

Safety of the dogs is a primary concern for agility, that is why it requires a lot of training before you attempt it at a show. It is usually a good idea for dogs to have Obedience training before beginning agility. And while dogs six months and older can begin learning some of the basics of Agility- it is not recommended they start jumping until they reach a minimum of one year old.

You can learn more about 4-H Agility, by reading the Agility rules in our Florida Dog Show Rules section of our website. If you have questions about AKC Agility, go to their website: www.akc.org